Articles tagged with Cancer Genetics
A new study found that patients' worry about disease was modestly elevated one week after genetic testing, but returned to normal levels a year later. Genetic tests also caused people to worry more about unfamiliar diseases like Graves' disease over common ones like diabetes.
Scientists have discovered a new component of the biological clock, a gene responsible for starting the clock from its restful state every morning. This discovery may help explain the genetic underpinnings of sleeplessness, aging and chronic illnesses such as cancer and diabetes.
A University of Melbourne study found that women with a strong family history of breast cancer but no genetic link are not consistently utilizing breast cancer services. They often struggle to interpret their risk and manage it effectively, leading to inadequate access to screenings and interventions.
A study by USC researchers suggests that high dietary intake of calcium causes prostate cancer among African-American men genetically good at absorbing the mineral. Men with poor calcium absorption were less likely to develop advanced prostate cancer.
Scientists have developed 'transcription factor beacons' to quickly detect the activity of proteins controlling gene expression in cancer. The breakthrough technology may enable faster cancer diagnosis and the discovery of new cancer drugs.
Researchers found a genetic defect in the GATA2 gene that predisposes people to acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplasia. The mutation affects the production of healthy white blood cells, increasing the risk of severe infections.
A study published in Nutrition and Cancer found that a diet rich in walnuts can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer in mice. The researchers discovered that the walnut-containing diet changed the activity of multiple genes relevant to breast cancer, leading to fewer tumors and smaller tumor sizes.
The UT Southwestern program identifies families with a high risk of colorectal cancer through tumor testing. Up to 50 family members can be tested for the Lynch syndrome, which carries an 80% risk of developing colon cancer.
A new saliva test can measure the levels of five key DNA adducts, which form when potentially cancer-causing substances bind to DNA. The test is convenient and non-invasive, making it a potential tool for health promotion and disease prevention.
A specific genetic alteration has been identified in epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE), a rare but devastating vascular cancer. A new diagnostic test for EHE has also been developed using this finding.
A study published in Nature Genetics found that individuals with mutations in the BAP1 gene are susceptible to developing mesothelioma and melanoma. The research suggests that the BAP1 gene mutation may be involved in multiple cancer types, including breast and ovarian cancer.
A low-cost, hand-held device called Gene-Z is being developed to detect cancer in resource-poor countries. The device monitors microRNAs and other genetic markers to diagnose cancer, providing an affordable solution to the lack of cancer screening resources in these countries.
A CAMH study found that a specific gene combination significantly increases lung cancer risk, particularly among light smokers with two high-risk variants of the nicotine metabolic and nicotinic genes. The genetic risk was higher in lighter smokers, suggesting a need for targeted interventions to reduce lung cancer risk.
A new study by the National Cancer Institute finds that cigarette smoking is responsible for about half of female bladder cancer cases, similar to the proportion found in men. The risk is higher than previously reported and may be due to changes in cigarette composition or smoking habits over the years.
A new process has been developed to identify patients at risk of Lynch syndrome, a genetic mutation that increases cancer risk. The process uses two inexpensive tests to eliminate possible carriers before full genome sequencing, significantly reducing costs and improving accuracy.
A new study developed a cost-effective way to identify patients at risk for Lynch syndrome, which could lead to earlier screenings and improved outcomes for colon and other cancers. The process uses two relatively inexpensive tests to eliminate possible carriers before full genome sequencing is required.
Tiny alterations in genes can act as magnets for biochemical tags, switching off anti-cancer genes and increasing cancer susceptibility. The study found subtle changes near the start of genes attract methylation, causing cancer development in families without spelling mistakes.
The University of Colorado Cancer Center has successfully genetically sequenced the most prevalent type of bladder cancer, urothelial carcinoma. The team discovered mutations in genes responsible for chromatin remodeling, which are similar to those found in other cancers.
The La Jolla Institute's new RNAi Center will focus on understanding the genetics behind disease processes and developing new therapies to treat disease. The Center aims to make key discoveries about how the immune system recognizes bacteria and viruses and fights infections.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have successfully treated advanced chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients with genetically engineered 'serial killer' T cells. The treatment involves removing and reprogramming patient cells to target specific proteins, resulting in sustained remissions and reduced side effects.
A study published in Nature Genetics identified 49 new significantly mutated genes associated with TCC, including eight genes related to chromatin remodeling. These genetic aberrations were found in 59% of individuals with TCC, suggesting a potential role for UTX gene in bladder cancer classification and diagnosis.
A Michigan State University researcher has developed a web-based genetics curricula with the goal of making the subject more engaging and accessible to students starting in fifth grade. The system, supported by a $2.3 million NSF grant, aims to improve students' understanding of genetic-related concepts.
Researchers have identified genetic mutations in patients with Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma, linking a heritable cause to the disease. Three genes, MSR1, ASCC1, and CTHRC1, were found to be mutated in 11% of BE/EAC patients, suggesting a significant genetic predisposition.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found at least 70 genetic mutations involved in the formation of colon cancer, surpassing previous estimates. This new understanding could lead to more effective treatments targeting multiple genes and pathways simultaneously.
Recent studies have shown that bone marrow transplant survival has significantly increased for young, high-risk leukemia patients, particularly those without matched donors. The results are attributed to advances in treatment and donor selection.
Researchers used zebrafish to investigate the deadly form of liver cancer and uncovered a genetic signature that could aid in diagnosis. They also identified specific markers for early- and late-stage cancer, which may inform treatment regimes.
Researchers have discovered that both types of polycythemia, previously thought to require different treatments, can be effectively treated with JAK2 inhibitors. This finding offers new hope for patients with Chuvash polycythemia, a disease affecting only a small number of people worldwide.
Researchers successfully modified messenger RNA to override a 'red light' signal, producing a full-length protein instead. This breakthrough may aid treatment strategies for genetic disorders caused by premature stop codons.
African-Americans have a genetic predisposition to convert dietary PUFAs to inflammatory messengers, increasing risk for chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The research highlights the importance of personalized nutrition, emphasizing that nutrients may be healthy or harmful depending on individual ancestry.
A validated scale measures concern about cancer in healthy people and evaluates the effectiveness of genetic counseling. The 'Escala de Preocupación por el Cáncer' tool is a reliable instrument for healthcare professionals to identify patients with high levels of fear, alerting them to preventive testing.
Researchers identified genetic mutations associated with lower cancer risk (e.g., MSH6) and increased risk (e.g., MLH1, MSH2) for ovarian and endometrial cancer in individuals with Lynch syndrome. The study provides age- and gene-specific risk estimates for each tumor type.
Researchers have discovered a link between a variant of the fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) and an increased incidence of breast cancer. The study, published in BMC Medical Genetics, found that people with this genetic variant have a 30% higher chance of developing breast cancer.
Researchers use a genetically re-engineered herpes virus that selectively infects cancer cells, prompting them to secrete a biomarker that can be detected. The technology has the potential to improve cancer diagnosis and monitoring, especially in less developed parts of the world.
Scientists discovered a gene linked to angle-closure glaucoma (ACG), a medical emergency that can cause rapid vision loss. The gene's activity is associated with abnormal eye development and increased intraocular pressure.
Researchers identified a genetic mutation causing fatal developmental disease MOPD1, affecting fetal growth and brain development. The mutation is prevalent in the Ohio Amish population, with approximately 6% prevalence.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers shows that chronic inflammation can lead to cancer by stimulating the production of microRNA-155, which increases the rate of spontaneous gene mutations. This discovery suggests that reducing miR-155 levels may improve treatment for inflammation-related cancers.
The Tissue Organization Field Theory (TOFT) of cancer origin proposes cells as the primary cause, contradicting the widely accepted Somatic Mutation Theory (SMT). The authors argue that current SMT technologies are untestable and fail to explain observable cancer phenomena.
Researchers found a significant association between Parkinson's disease and an increased risk of prostate cancer and melanoma. The study, using the Utah Population Database, also identified a reciprocal risk for PD among individuals with these two cancers and their relatives.
Researchers found that heavy beer drinkers with a certain genetic variant were at higher risk of developing non-cardia gastric cancer. The study also showed that non-drinkers with the same gene variant had an elevated risk of gastric cancer.
A genetic variant has been linked to both longer telomeres and a reduced risk of bladder cancer, according to researchers. The study found that the variant, rs398652, was associated with a 19% reduction in bladder cancer risk.
Research suggests that most second cancers are due to lifestyle and genetics, not radiotherapy. The study found an estimated 8% proportion of second cancers related to radiotherapy, with higher risks for younger patients and organs exposed to higher radiation doses.
Using genomic analysis, researchers have discovered a key role for E2F2 gene activation in increasing the risk of breast cancer relapse. The study also found that removing this gene can significantly decrease tumor growth and improve treatment outcomes.
A new patented therapy has been developed by WSU researcher Dr. Karli Rosner, which uses genetic constructs to target cancer cells and induce apoptosis, eliminating the need for external medications. The treatment shows promise in treating various types of cancers, including melanoma, prostate, lung, and breast cancers.
Scientists identified two distinct repressor proteins that use different molecular mechanisms to halt gene expression during development. This study may hold the key to explaining how diseases like cancer and diabetes are caused by genes unable to shift gears properly. By understanding these mechanisms, researchers can begin to see how...
Researchers discovered that targeting cancer-related pathways can treat congenital heart disease, with one drug reversing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in mouse models. Two drugs, an immunosuppressant and anti-cancer agent, were found to be effective in preventing and reversing the condition.
The University Hospitals system has implemented a successful approach to stroke care, increasing the use of tPA therapy for ischemic stroke patients by 13.5 times. The System Stroke Program (SSP) educated community hospital staff and ensured timely treatment, resulting in better patient outcomes.
A new study has identified interleukin 15 as a key trigger for the development of celiac disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Blocking this molecule could potentially prevent the disease, and its effects on inflammatory intestinal diseases may also offer new insights into treating conditions like acne and rheumatoid arthritis.
A novel form of personalized therapy using genetically engineered anti-tumor immune cells shows promising results in treating metastatic melanoma and synovial cell sarcoma. The technique, called adoptive immunotherapy, resulted in response rates of 45% and 67% in malignant melanoma and synovial cell sarcoma patients, respectively.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that genetic mutations in brain tumors can alter their metabolism. This study found over 100 metabolites with altered concentrations in cells with the defective IDH1 or IDH2 genes, providing promising avenues for future research into new treatments.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre solved two cold cases using genetic studies, identifying a gene responsible for rare cancer and thyroid disease. The findings provided answers for families affected by the diseases, including information on screening tests and risk for future generations.
Scientists discovered that broccoli's cancer-fighting compounds target the p53 gene, which is often mutated in human cancers. Isothiocyanates from broccoli may remove the defective protein, leaving normal cells intact, paving the way for new cancer treatments.
A contagious cancer found in dogs, wolves, and coyotes can repair its genetic mutations by adopting genes from its host animal. The cancer steals tiny DNA-containing powerhouses called mitochondria from infected cells to incorporate as its own.
Scientists have developed a stable RNA nanoparticle that can power biological motors and resist enzyme breakdown, paving the way for RNA nanotechnology applications. This innovation could lead to new treatments for cancer, viral, and genetic diseases.
Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have unraveled the relationship between MITF and ATF2, a transcription factor involved in melanoma development. The study reveals that the ratio of ATF2 to MITF in melanoma cells can predict survival in melanoma patients.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins and VCU have developed a nanoparticle-based gene 'ignition switch' to detect and treat cancer. The promoter-based system activates specific genes only in cancer cells, showing a 30-fold difference in identification.
Reproductive scientists have successfully created male and female mice from two fathers using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. This breakthrough could pave the way for preserving endangered species and improving livestock breeds, as well as advancing human assisted reproductive technology (ART).
A study suggests that women with a personal history of breast cancer should consider annual MRI screening to detect cancers earlier. The research found higher cancer yields and lower false-positive rates in this group, supporting the consideration of MRI as an adjunct to mammography.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center discovered that the gene AEG-1 promotes cancer cell survival and resistance to chemotherapy by regulating protective autophagy. Inhibiting AEG-1 expression may lead to effective treatments for aggressive cancers, such as breast and prostate carcinomas.
A recent study published in PNAS reveals the unique role of EZH2 enzyme in cancer, facilitating the development of selective small molecule therapeutics for specific forms of human lymphomas. The research highlights the importance of targeting HMTs in genetically-defined cancer patients with high unmet needs.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that an individual's normal genetic constitution plays a key role in driving changes in tumors during cancer development. The study compared genetic profiles of tumors from the same individual with those from other individuals, revealing similar yet distinct patterns of DNA changes.